Note 10. Share-based Compensation: Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2012

Independence Holding Company Share Based Plans Total Member

Policies

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy

Under the terms of IHC’s stock-based compensation plans, option exercise prices are more than or equal to the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant; option terms range from five to ten years; and vesting periods are three years for employee options.  The Company may also grant shares of restricted stock, share appreciation rights (“SARs”) and share-based performance awards. Restricted shares are valued at the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant and have a three year vesting period. Exercise prices of SARs are more than or equal to the quoted market price of IHC shares at the date of the grant and have three year vesting periods.

American Independence Corp Share Based Plans Total Member

Policies

Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy

Under the terms of the AMIC’s stock-based compensation plan, option exercise prices are equal to the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant; option terms are ten years; and vesting periods range from three to four years.  AMIC may also grant shares of restricted stock, stock appreciation rights and share-based performance awards.  Restricted shares are valued at the quoted market price of the shares at the date of grant, and have a three year vesting period.